May-Lin,
You are right. You need the content and the conduit (communication) for learning and your teaching pattern weaves that together.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I believe the two most important things to consider when establishing a pattern of teaching are course content objectives and communication.
I've had experiences as an online student where the instructor would be present one week and then seem to drop off the face of the earth the next. If you sent an email with a question and they weren't responding you were almost stuck at a certain part waiting for an answer so that is why I chose communication. It is important to be there for the students who ask questions and also provide timely feedback on their papers and postings.
I also think that course content objectives is very important. I send out weekly emails to discuss what I want the students to get out of the weeks readings, assignments, and discussion questions. I kind of give them a little synopsis of what we are reading about and what are goals and objectives are for the week. I also think it meets the staying in touch part because they know they will get a weekly email from me every week.
Nitin,
True, and sharing something about you is so important. Many instructors introduce themselves at the beginning of the course so students can connect to the human behind the computer.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Nitin,
Great point. I actually tell students there are no surprises in out the class. Vagueness is a recipe for disaster. You need to keep students aware of the syllabus and what is expected of them. . . continually.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Laurie - you do make a good point.
Letting the students know that the instructor is there to help each and every one of them is important.
I like to call on all in attendance by name to get them to participate.
Teaching pattern?
1 - Tell the students what they will learn
2 - Teach what I told them
In other words - there should be no vagueness to the learning agenda and process. The students should know what is being discussed and how it will be discussed.
Laurie,
I agree with you. You have to continue being "there" when students need you. You have to make sure students know where "there" is online.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Robin ,
Great point. The material that guides students through an online course should be as obvious as a f2f instructor that tells students in class.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Dale,
I agree with you. You have to set the expectations and hold students to it. Students should have reasonable expectations of us and should hold us accountable also.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
David,
You make a great point. Consistency is the key. There is comfort for everyone in that!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I agree. It is important to be present--it helps students to know you are "there" and that you are actually more than just a computer generated entity. Letting students know you are active allows for more engagement. It also serves to inspire students to be more active and engaged.
When establishing a teaching pattern I think one of the most important things is to have clear and measurable learning objectives. These need to be clear and indicate not only the what that a student needs to provide but also some of the "how."
The second most important would be having a centralized location where students can go for basic information on the course and how to succeed. This might include how to submit assignments, late work policies, how to access course materials, etc.
Dr. Wilkinson,
I think expectations are important, they should include information such as discussion board requirements, assignment due dates, late policy, chat session times and days, and due dates. Second I think it is just as important that we are very clear as to how we can be reached and times available. e-mail, phone, etc.
I think that consistency is important throughtout the course. If you use one method in one week...you should continue to use that method throughout the rest of the course. Another thing to consider is ensuring all of the content is functional and that the audience is capable of handling the content that you put out.
David Pittman
Tony,
Great post. You are right. It is so important to have that communication between students and instructors as well as among students. That can dictate teaching pattern.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
A pattern of teaching is critical to provide a good experience to teachers/instructors and students alike. As in most learning situations, good communication has to be at or near the top of the list when it comes to achieving desired results. A close second would be learning outcomes so both instructor and student know where the course is going and what the expectations are.
Alfred,
Agreed on you list. Why do you think chat is so important? Do students utilize it when you don't require attendance?
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Anne,
That is true, but you would be surprised with faculty just wanting to "do their own thing". I am not a believer in students are consumers of education ( they are products); but I do think we have to make sure that we deliver what is promised.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
First is communicating the learning outcomes. The outcomes are set by the university in order to ensure uniformity. Secondly is making the best use of the required live chat. Even though students are note required to attend, they can watch the archive.
When establishing a pattern of teaching communication and learner outcomes are the two most important things to consider. Ineffective communication can destroy a student's experience and success. If we aren't concerned with learner outcomes, why are we even in the role of a teacher.
